White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent, long medullary rays visible as flake or speckle on the end grain section; ring-porous structure with distinct growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is near-white to light brown and not always sharply demarcated. Tends to darken slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the pores, making it water-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (wine and whiskey barrels), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut/raw state; based on the visible saw marks (kerf) and lack of oxidation/patina, the sample is recently harvested or milled.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) if wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'tannic' scent when worked; high tannin content; contains tyloses which plug the vessels, making the wood liquid-tight.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though large pores may require grain filler for a glass-smooth surface. Polyurethane, oil-based varnishes, and penetrating oils are common.
Identification Confidence
High; the presence of large, distinct medullary rays along with the ring-porous structure and light brown/olive hue is diagnostic for the White Oak group.